Issuu

Riconoscente! N OV E M B E R 2 022

Hunterdon Health. We help you live every day, extraordinary. Our doctors, nurses and health professionals provide compassionate, personalized care. With an empathetic approach and a focus on clinical expertise, we’re committed to building stronger, healthier communities. We help care for you and your family so you can live every day, extraordinary. To learn more about our services or to find a doctor, scan the QR code or visit our website hunterdonhealth.org.

Hopewell Valley Real Estate Pulse from the Dave Marcolla Group at Keller Williams Real Estate Contact us to get your FREE home valuation today. Dave Marcolla is a Hopewell Township resident and top area Realtor. Dave has lived in the Township for over 10 years and specializes in Mercer and Bucks Counties. Last year he sold 60 homes for $30 million in closed sales. He and his team are experts in what they do. Dave is a graduate of the Princeton School of Real Estate and holds his MBA from La Salle University. Contact him today to find out why he and his team are known for delivering a better experience!

6 0 9. 42 3 . 9 147

Direct

21 5 . 86 0. 42 0 0

Of fice

DAV E @ DAV E M A R C O L L A .C O M DAV E M A R C O L L A .C O M

1 2 T E R R Y D R I V E | N E W T O W N , P E N N S Y L V A N I A | L I C E N S E D R E A LT O R S - PA A N D N J

NEIGHBORHOOD

LIST PRICE

BEDS

BATHS

DOM

CLOSE PRICE

%SOLD/ORIG

35 Brandon Rd W

$992,900

$937,000

94%

28 Chicory Ln

$749,900

$836,000

112%

55 Avalon Rd

$730,000

$805,000

110%

19 Maple Ln

$700,000

$770,000

110%

7 Honey Brook Dr

$750,000

$751,000

100%

2 Lupine Ln

$682,000

$750,000

110%

6 E Acres Dr

$669,900

$723,700

108%

85 Chicory Ln

$699,900

$700,000

100%

78 Harbourton Woodsville Rd

$675,000

$680,000

101%

1312 River Rd

$625,000

$635,000

102%

Source: Bright MLS 8/16/22 - 9/15/22

Whether you’re planning a move or planning to stay a while, we’re here to help. Our goal at the Bill Mervin Team is to not only assist clients with buying and financing homes, but to also help our clients own their homes at the highest level in order to maximize generational wealth through real estate. Let’s set up a free equity analysis to make sure you are utilizing your equity and mortgage indebtedness for their highest and best use today.

Bill Mervin Regional Manager

140 Terr y Drive, Suite 105 New town, PA 18940 NML S # 2884 • NML S #313 416 2 15 - 4 31-7429 | team@billmer vinteam.com

ANGELO LOURIDAS Senior Mortgage Banker 140 Terr y Drive, Suite 105 New town, PA 18940 NML S # 2884 • NML S #313 416 2 15 - 4 31-7429 | angelo@billmer vinteam.com

Apex Home Loans is a division of Celebrity Home Loans, LLC | NMLS # 227765 | For licensing information, go to: www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org | www.celebrityhomeloans.com | Please review our Disclosures & Licensing information. | Celebrity Home Loans, LLC has no afﬁliation with the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, the US Department of Veterans Affairs, the US Department of Agriculture or any other government agency. Equal Housing Lender. For further information about Celebrity Home Loans, LLC, please visit our website at www.celebrityhomeloans.com. Receipt of application does not represent an approval for ﬁnancing or interest rate guarantee. Applicant subject to credit, acceptable appraisal, title, and underwriting approval. Not all applicants will be approved. Other terms and conditions apply. Contact Celebrity Home Loans, LLC for more information and up-to-date rates.

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Thankful

November 2022 PUBLISHER

Rachel Schnure | rachel.schnure@citylifestyle.com EDITOR

Julie Brown Patton | julie.patton@citylifestyle.com

In this season of giving thanks, we often find ourselves reflecting on the many blessings in our lives. The true spirit of Thanksgiving encourages the conscious expression of gratitude. Its focus is spending time with those you love, and encourages thinking of others in meaningful ways. Our November edition is dedicated to stories of gathering, gratefulness, and giving back to the Hopewell Valley region. We're thankful for the local residents and businesses who support so many wonderful organizations and help make our area the vibrant community that it is. We're especially thankful for our advertising partners who help ensure this magazine can be delivered to your doorsteps each month. They're part of our vision and purpose of sharing inspiring stories and the good news of the community directly to you. Speaking of which, we'd like to shine a spotlight on a Nov. 19 fun event hosted by Model Me Photography at Interstate Motorsports in Pennington from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event is the chance to become a model for the day. Models of all ages, including chaperones, are welcome. Photographers on-site will work with the theme of "Rock and Roll Cars of Fame." Models are expected to arrive ready with makeup and attire. Be sure to consider the theme when selecting what to wear. Laura Geltch, Model Me Photography director, coordinates model and photography events in unique, exclusive locations throughout the Northeast. She says the Interstate Motorsport showroom features pristine exotic cars boasting one of the most extensive exotic and classic car inventories in New Jersey. "Their showrooms will provide a shiny Rock and Roll setting," she promises. This holiday season, as we prepare to gather with our loved ones, and in the true spirit of thanksgiving, let’s set time aside to consider what truly makes life meaningful and stop to reflect on how we're fortunate. Blessings to you and your family,

AD DESIGNER

Mary Albers LAYOUT DESIGNER

Kelsi Southard STAFF PHOTOGR APHER

Heather Raub CONTR IBUTING WR ITER

Erica Brooke Gordon CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

Janie Jones, Kathryn Dunham, Justin Hoch, Maria O’Leary

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Randy Radosevich DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

RACHEL SCHNURE, PUBLISHER @ H O P E W E L LV A L L E Y C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise

Scan QR code to visit our Instagram C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E .C O M / H O P E W E L LVA L L E Y |

Proverbs 3:5-6 Hopewell Valley City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Hopewell Valley area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Hopewell Valley City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

68 Upper Creek Road, Stockton NJ Stunning Historic Property in Rural Stockton is steeped with incredible records of days gone by combined with a fascinating history and remarkable stories. Sitting on a picturesque and peaceful lot, this incredible property offers a number of well-maintained, distinct buildings that showcase real charm and charisma. The living spaces retain historic features and fittings that honor their heritage, including beam ceilings, fireplaces, wall paneling, and hung windows, while also incorporating modern conveniences to create idyllic homes. The property has a well-documented rental history and would make a fantastic investment or could be converted back to a proper farm.

Erin McManus-Keyes 609.516.1985 hunterdonbucksrealty.com 30 Coryell Street | Lambertville, New Jersey

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inside the issue The Thankful Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

12 Going The ‘Maximus’ Distance

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Decor Trends

Athlete Life

Chef ’s Selection

Happy Hour

Inspired By

Events

Giving Back

Kitchen And Construction Business Has ‘Helping Others’ At Its Core

16 Yes, Wrestle Like A Girl

New Jersey Women’s Wrestling Advocate Grateful To See More Female Athletes, Leaders In The Sport

20 Family, Community And Wine

Creating Handcrafted Wines By Blending Old World Traditions With New World Flair

26 Chubby’s Project

Intentional Neighboring At Its Best Through Food And Soulful Nourishment

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Heather Raub / FrontRoom Images Hopewell Valley Vineyards is owned and operated by Violetta and Sergio Neri. They provide gathering/bar areas, special events, live music, brick oven pizza and an outdoor piazza with patio tables, umbrellas and lighting.

LO CA L S ERV I C E S

FI T NES S FO O D + B EV E R AG E

LI FE + C U LT U R E WELLNES S

LO CA L S ERV I C ES

A sanctuary to Breathe... Drift... Rejuvenate... Renew... Escape from your daily life– whether you have 15 minutes or several hours.

Upgrade your mind, body and spirit.

CELEBRATING OUR 5TH YEAR ANNIVERSARY As a Thank You, We Will Be Hosting Events Throughout November. Check our V @4elementswellness or Subscribe to Our Email List for More Information. AIR

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EARTH

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WATER

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FIRE

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Worlds Apart from the Rest SALES · DESIGN · FABRICATION · INSTALLATION

Large Selection of Natural Stone & Porcelain Tiles VANITIES · FAUCETS · SHOWER DOORS · TUBS · TOILETS 609.580.1981 | galaxytileofprinceton.com | info@galaxytileprinceton.com Stop By Our Showroom Today! 830 State Rd, Princeton, NJ 08540

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city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen. 1

7 5

1: Friends of Hopewell Valley Open Space: Milkweed bugs are still busy this time of year. 2: Friends of Hopewell Valley Open Space: Bees on New England asters strike a vibrant pose. 3: Friends of Hopewell Valley Open Space: Fortunate to host Monarchs at Thompson Preserve. 4: Golden Retriever ‘Friday’ enjoys hiking at Sourland Mountain Preserve. 5: Friends of Hopewell Valley Open Space: An ever-watchful Kingfisher at Thompson Preserve. 6: Friends of Hopewell Valley Open Space: Golden Oak leaves at Thompson Preserve. 7: Friends of Hopewell Valley Open Space.

Photography by Kathryn Dunham

C I T Y SC E N E

8: View from Bowman’s Hill Tower: looking south toward Baldpate Mountain and Titusville (Hopewell Valley). 9: View from Bowman’s Hill Tower: looking north toward New Hope/Lambertville. 10: Rosedale Park in Hopewell Valley is lovely and different at various times of the day. Photography by Maria O’Leary

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @hopewellvalleycitylifestyle

NOVEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/H OP E W E L LVA L L E Y

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business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

HVRSD Approves New $845,000 Turf Field Hopewell Valley School Board members approved an expenditure of $845,000 to replace the turf at the Central High School field, using money from the district’s reserve for capital projects. The current field is 11 years old and was donated by the Hopewell Valley Recreation Foundation. That field deteriorated faster than expected, says Athletic Director Tripp Becker, primarily because lacrosse, a popular sport in the school district, is particularly rough on turf fields.

TerraCycle Announces Subscription Recycling Service For Hard-To-Recycle Waste Representatives of TerraCycle, an innovative Trenton-based recycling company that specializes in hard-to-recycle materials, launched TerraCycle Home, a subscription-based pickup service for 20-plus waste streams that local recycling services typically won't accept curbside. TerraCycle Home services Mercer County residents, along with Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Hunterdon, Middlesex, Morris, Somerset and Union counties. Consumers may subscribe to a monthly or twice-monthly pickup service, which involves using 'Zero Waste' bags. For more details on TerraCycle’s recycling programs, visit TerraCycle.com.

Mercer Meadows Equestrian Center Now Hosting Trail Rides The Mercer County Park Trail Riding Program in Pennington is now open through mid-May 2023. Adults and youth 12 years or older can join a 45-minute, guided and walkonly trail ride around the Mercer Stables property. Previous riding experience is not necessary, but riders must be able to control the horse. Cost is $45 each. Phone-in reservations only; call 609.730.9059, extension 401. Community Pass accounts need to be set up before calling to make reservations. Photography by Mercer Meadows Equestrian Center/Mercer County Stables

Photography by TerraCycle Home

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/HopewellValley

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

Celebrate this Season with us at the Lambertville House!

Book your next Employee Appreciation Extravaganza, End of Year Celebration, Corporate Retreat, or Holiday at the Lambertville House. VBA @LambertvilleHouse

| lambertvillehouse.com | 609.397.0200 | 32 Bridge St, Lambertville, NJ 08530

SMALL BITES. BIG SMILES.

Now Open in the Heart of Hopewell // Traditional Greek Market Salads | Gyros | Bowls | Greek Entrees | and More www.eatgreekbites.com // 2 1 E Broad St Hopewell , NJ Open 1 1am - 8pm // Ever yday NOVEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/H OP E W E L LVA L L E Y

Going The ‘ Ma x imus’ Dis t ance

Kitchen And Construction Business Has ‘Helping Others’ At Its Core

D E C OR T R E N D S | LOCAL S E RVI CE S

ARTICLE BY ERICA BROOKE GORDON PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY MAXIMUS CONSTRUCTION NJ

With Maximus Construction NJ named after owner Edward "Eddie" Yakubovich's son, Maximus, God and family are clearly the heart of the company's work. As a result, Eddie says he ensures his customers and clients are treated like family, with the team lending helping hands, regardless of size or scope. Eddie's foray into construction began with designing kitchens as the "heart of homes" for 15 years. In 2017, he expanded with construction, both inside and out, including decks, custom additions and new homes. For two years, he completed new construction projects and home renovations and expansions, such as a 9,000 square-foot home expansion in Newtown. In 2019, he founded Maximus Construction NJ. However, Maximus services go beyond the state, basically within a 50-mile radius including Pennsylvania, Delaware and New York. CONTINUED >

NOVEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/H OP E W E L LVA L L E Y

Defining the business' reputation is its "do it all" approach. Eddie says if he and his team have the necessary resources and skills, no project is too small or large. And, if he or his team can't do a particular task, he'll find someone who can. "When a customer asks if I know someone for a job, my usual answer is 'No problem,'" Eddie adds. “There’s rarely a job where we can’t help. If there’s a project we're able to do any part of, we can help get it done.” God, family and business -- in that order -- are the guiding principles of Maximus Construction, and the three most important aspects to its owner, who says he knows that going the extra mile doesn't have to cost a fortune. “If I can help a homeowner save money on cabinets or something else, I’m happy to do that even if someone else is doing the installation," he says, pointing out that his financial bottom line is not his top priority. "The things that matter to me are not what matter to most." As a people person, Eddie says his favorite projects sometimes don't involve any hands-on work, as long as he's helping others, whether through design, cabinet sales or large-scale jobs, which "often stem from the kitchen, but don’t have to," he explains.

D E C OR T R E N D S | LOCAL S E RVI CE S

Eddie's commitment to his customers and clients shows in the feedback he receives, many who reference concepts of trust. “The way we carry ourselves, the way we do business, that’s something we hear all the time," he says. He says former clients, such as one in Tom's River, New Jersey, even continue to contact him, just to check in. In addition to custom kitchen design, cabinetry and installation, and large-scale home renovation/construction, Eddie has another business, thanks to his son. Maximus Collectibles offers Pokemon cards and beyond, both online and from its Pennington storefront. This Thanksgiving, this business owner says he has a lot for which to be thankful. “God, first and foremost, and my family are what it's all about. Everything else is just part of what we have to do to provide for ourselves and our families," he says. "The gift I’ve been given in my life, my family, is a complete driving force for me.” 917.282.1854 MaximusConstructionNJ.com MaximusCollectibles.com

NOVEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/H OP E W E L LVA L L E Y

Ye s ,

Wrestle like a

Girl New Jersey Women’s Wrestling Advocate

Grateful To See More Female Athletes And Leaders In The Sport

"Gentle Pressure, Relentlessly Applied" is a mantra that's guided Lori Clift Ayres since 2021 while she initiated efforts to ensure women got equal chances in the contact sport of wrestling, starting in high school athletic programs. This New Jersey teacher, freelance artist, podcaster and mother says she's always been involved with wrestling. During high school, she met her husband, Chris Ayres, who now is head wrestling coach at Princeton University. "I found myself jealous of the opportunities that the Princeton male wrestlers were getting, and I thought to myself, if I could've had those same opportunities when I was 18, 19, 20, where might I be now?" poses Lori. "I had to be almost 40 to experience some of the cool things they got to do."

ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON

AT H LE T E LIF E | FITNESS

Lori Clift Ayres Photo by Justin Hoch

Lori says when she saw her then-high-schoolaged daughter, Chloe, sitting across the mat, she thought she probably felt that same way about wanting to continue in wrestling. So, Lori got involved in instigating changes as an advocate. She then served as a leader in the state sanctioning process, helping to solidify a solid future for girls wrestling in New Jersey. "I absolutely would've wrestled in college, 100%. Girls and women can benefit from this sport just as much as boys and men," Lori verifies as one of her guiding principles. Lori is a co-founder of D1 Women's Wrestling, an organization working to advance opportunities for women to wrestle at the D1 level. She's a board member of the New Jersey Regional Training Center, and sits on USA Wrestling's National Women's Council representing the Northeast region. Lori also hosts a podcast for Flowrestling called, "Everything Women's Wrestling." Based on a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from York College of Pennsylvania and a master's of education in special education from Lehigh University, Lori specializes in education programming for individuals with language-based learning delays. She adds, "I have passion for inclusivity, and believe wrestling benefits all individuals regardless of their gender, race, background or physical makeup." She encourages all wrestling communities to look around, and identify who they aren't including. This Thanksgiving, Lori confirms she'll be including progress within women's wrestling among her list of gratitudes. "Girls' wrestling is the fastest-growing, US high school sport, and women have over 120 options to wrestle in college at NAIA and NCAA schools, but there's still plenty of room for growth," she shares. "We need more female coaches, officials and leaders in the sport. I'd like to see current leaders at the youth, high school, college and senior levels expand their networks to include more women. Women want to be involved, and are more likely to be considered for leadership opportunities when they’re connected to decision-makers within the sport."

NOVEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/H OP E W E L LVA L L E Y

Herb Salt Recipe JUST NEED BLENDER OR FOOD PROCESSOR AND MINIMAL INGREDIENTS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES Herb salts are becoming popular, and can add flavor to a variety of dishes. There are endless flavor combinations, and these salts are super handy to have as a staple in the kitchen. Plus, these make great gifts for family and friends.

HE R B S A LT INGREDIENTS • 1 cup salt of choice (Himalayan pink salt is a good choice, but any salt will do) • 1/4 to 1/2 cup parsley (add more if using fresh herbs) • 2 tablespoons dried basil (or 1/4 cup if using fresh) • 1 tablespoon oregano • 1 tablespoon lemon zest • 1 garlic clove minced • Optional: Any additional herbs preferred DIRECTIONS Add fresh parsley, garlic, lemon zest and a little bit of salt to the blender or food processor. Mix for 10 seconds. Add additional ingredients and blend again. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and pour salt mixture on sheet, evenly spread. Set in a cool oven overnight to dry. Pour salt into a container of choice and enjoy for various kinds of meals.

C HE F ’S SE LE CT ION | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

Servicing the needs of central New Jersey and Bucks County Pennsylvania residents for over 65 years.

Because We Care

Lawn & Garden | All Natural Pet Food & Supplies Wild Bird | Fall Furniture, Decor & Plants

Fall Community Fest | October 15th 10-2pm Food Trucks | Live Music | Carnival Games Pumpkin Painting And More! Interested in becoming a volunteer or vendor? Email info@rosedalemills.com

101 Route 31 N Pennington, New Jersey 08534 | (609) 737-2008 | www.rosedalemills.com

WELCOME! HOPEWELL VALLEY VINEYARDS

Award Winning Wines Artisan Brick Oven Pizza Great Live Music NOVEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/H OP E W E L LVA L L E Y

H AP PY H OU R | L IFE + CULTURE

ARTICLE BY ERICA BROOKE GORDON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY HEATHER RAUB

Fa m i ly, C om mu n it y A nd W i ne Creating Handcrafted Wines By Blending Old World Traditions With New World Flair

After Violetta Neri's husband, Sergio Neri, retired in 2001, seven years after moving to Mercer County, they established Hopewell Valley Vineyards as "something new and exciting," Violetta says, a logical choice considering Sergio's grandfather, father and brother in Italy were experienced winemakers, as were Violetta's mother and grandmother, who made wine for the family. That year, they built their family home on the property, which their children call the "Mothership." "No matter where anyone in the family is in the world, it still somehow embraces us all," Violetta explains. Additionally, eliminating a daily commute helped the couple better balance the demands of work and family, including caring for their now-31-year-old autistic son, Davide, who lives with them. In 2003, Hopewell Valley Vineyards opened to the public. The couple moved their baby grand piano to the tasting room, and Sergio, also a talented jazz pianist, played on weekends. The winery morphed into a full-fledged business, with the Neris expanding in 2008 into a larger winemaking room, their Main Tasting Room. Along with incorporating a stage, a grand piano and a larger bar, they added live music on weekends and expanded menu options, including their "now-beloved" brick oven pizza, and converted the parking lot into an outdoor piazza with patio tables, umbrellas and lighting. Known for its European-made wines created using only grapes, the winery is open year-round, offering a limited menu Monday to Thursday, and live music Friday through Sunday afternoons. Nov. 20 is their Friendsgiving event with seasonal menu. Planning also begins for their annual December holiday market. Private events, coordinated by Jess Dalton, are accommodated in either or both tasting rooms, the outdoor piazza and under the tent (which closes soon for winter). Events, including weddings, feature homemade Italian food prepared by Sergio, also a talented chef, reveals Violetta, who enjoys their married couples returning to visit. "We have nourished some great friendships over the years, and we continue to do so," she says, adding, "Wine brings humans together in magical ways." CONTINUED >

NOVEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/H OP E W E L LVA L L E Y

Enchanting weddings and special events are hosted at Hopewell Valley Vineyards.

H AP PY H OU R | L IFE + CULTURE

In 2013, the couple launched Project Autism to generate jobs for adults with autism. In 2017, the project's success led them to develop Pennington Adult Living Services (PALS), a fully-licensed nonprofit providing services to individuals with developmental disabilities, something Violetta says is "heartwarming, gratifying and greatly needed." These days, apart from the Neris running their businesses, maintaining their wine quality, focusing on sustainability — with the vineyard being a preserved farm operated on solar panels, plus composting, reusing, repurposing and recycling — and spending time with their children and grandchildren, major expansions are on hold. "Waking up and seeing the morning mists of the Sourland Mountains hovering over the vineyard still fills me with such gratitude," says Violetta. "I'm deeply grateful for our family and life together with all its complexity, challenges, diversity, care and love, and for our business that supports our family and offers joy, fun and a serene place for our guests to rest and escape everyday stress."

SERGIO RECOMMENDS PAIRING THESE WINES WITH A TRADITIONAL THANKSGIVING MEAL: •

•

Spumante Secco (appetizers): This wine's "crisp effervescence and gentle dry acidity" pairs well with roasted pumpkin, hummus crostini, gourmet cheese, puff pastries and deviled eggs. Sangiovese and Rosso della Valle (turkey): With "tame tannins and balanced acidity," these wines bring forth "the delicate flavors of the turkey," providing "a satisfying and round finish." Porto Rosso, Porto Bianco (dessert): Chocolate and fruity desserts work well with Porto Rosso, while Porto Bianco is perfect alongside cream and pastry-based dessert.

609.737.4465 HopewellValleyVineyards.com CONTINUED >

NOVEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/H OP E W E L LVA L L E Y

Catch Hopewell Valley Vineyard co-owner Sergio Neri at the piano! His wife, Violetta, adores it when he plays for guests.

The vineyard’s stage allows for indoor live music.

H AP PY H OU R | L IFE + CULTURE

Head to Hopewell Valley Vineyards for elegant occasions.

Dignified service to all families

R. Asher Wilson, Manager, NJ Lic. #3823 2560 Pennington Road Pennington, New Jersey 08534 (609) 737-1498 • WILSONAPPLE.COM

ROBERT A. WILSON, OWNER Wilson-Apple Funeral Home NJ Lic #2520

R. ASHER WILSON, MANAGER Wilson-Apple Funeral Home Cromwell Memorial Home

NJ Lic # 3823/Pa Lic # FD-000766

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NOVEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/H OP E W E L LVA L L E Y

2021 Walk-A-Thon

chubby’s project Intentional Neighboring At Its Best Through Food And Soulful Nourishment ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY THE CHUBBY’S PROJECT

Two food pantries restocked weekly; 150 lunches delivered each week; 16,000 meals provided since March 2020. These impressive achievements are a result of two, community-dedicated initiatives dovetailing to safeguard intentional neighboring: Chubby’s Luncheonette/Aunt Chubby's of Hopewell restaurant and the hyperlocal nonprofit The Chubby’s Project. Chubby's Project Founder and Co-Owner of the Aunt Chubby's Lyn Farrugia says the restaurant provides meals, buys food and packaging at cost, and supplies infrastructure and labor, while the Project pays

I NSP IR E D BY | WEL L NESS

the restaurant’s contribution using funds from grants and private donations. "The Project was originally intended to use donations from Aunt Chubby’s Luncheonette to give back to the community. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Luncheonette distributed gift cards via the Hopewell Council of Churches, so those in need would be able to come in for a hot meal or some company," she explains. "When the shutdown happened in 2020 and restaurant profits were non-existent, there was a need to pivot and The Chubby’s Project Lunch Program was born."

Cheryl Pothast (left) and Lyn Farrugia

Chubby’s restaurant regulars.

Two self-serve food pantries with nonperishable items are located at Aunt Chubby’s of Hopewell restaurant patio.

CONTINUED > NOVEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/H OP E W E L LVA L L E Y

Stocked groceries.

Dennis O’Neil , pastor, Calvary Baptist Church Hopewell

I NSP IR E D BY | WEL L NESS

Specifically, the Project's components enable hot meals and groceries to be delivered four days a week to neighbors in need. Volunteers deliver the food, assist with household tasks and errands, and provide friendly human connections. "There are all different ways people come to need food. Most are working, many are convalescing after hospital stays and some are elderly. We think of the Chubby's Project as providing a safety net for body, mind and spirit, and for recognizing lonely neighbors who might need comfort and conversations along with a meal," says Lyn. She says The Project also stocks two self-serve food pantries with nonperishable items provided by community members. The pantries are located on the restaurant's back patio. "We work with school and community groups to collect and sort donations, stock the pantries, and educate the public about food insecurity in Hopewell and beyond." Huge gratitude also goes to gardeners of the Community Sharing Gardens At St. Michaels Farm Preserve, who've donated more than 1,900 pounds of fresh produce this year, says Lyn. "We conduct events to help teach how to be observant and respectful from a young age, because it isn't always obvious to tell who's hungry," she adds. Chubby's volunteer, from its inception, Cheryl Pothast says her passion is in helping others understand what hunger "looks like" in Hopewell. For the past two years, she's provided a hunger educational program with local fifth graders. "In our busy lives, many people are surprised to learn about how often someone needs food. Many of our elderly are isolated without routine support systems. We become their extended families, so to speak, and it's an amazing part of the program," she adds.

“We think of the Chubby’s Project as providing a safety net for body, mind and spirit, and for recognizing lonely neighbors who might need comfort and conversations along with a meal.”

TWO NOVEMBER EVENTS TO NOTE: •

Walk-A-Thon regarding food insecurity on Nov. 6; coincides with the communitywide 2022 Day of Service. Participants can learn details about community food-related needs through booths, donate food or money, and reflect about being good neighbors while exercising. • Thanksgiving Day lunch feast will be hosted at Hopewell Presbyterian Church, 80 W. Broad St., with anyone welcome. The nonprofit received a 2021 Snailblazer award for Food Justice from Slow Food USA. To volunteer, email foundation@auntchubbys.com or consult the group's website. Cheryl says volunteers can assist at any capacity, even by hosting a one-time food drive. Donation checks can be dropped off at Aunt Chubby’s during business hours. This 501(c)(3) also receives online donations via PayPal and Venmo. 609.855.0080 TheChubbysProject.org ChubbysLuncheonette.com

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events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

NOVE M BE R 6T H

We Make's 3rd Annual Harvest Fun-Raiser

WE MAKE, AUTIS M AT WOR K FAC I L I T Y | 6 :0 0 P M Enjoy an autumn afternoon at 109 NJ-31 in Pennington with local chefs and eateries with a family-style meal and a wine tasting, to support We Make’s Employment programs. Their mission is to create, inspire and implement an innovative approach to meaningful careers for people with autism, from the environment, the processes, the opportunities, to product fulfillment built around shared needs. NOVE M BE R 6T H

Rhett Miller Concert

H OPEW ELL THEATER | 7:00 PM Texas native Rhett Miller is best known as frontman of the Dallas-based alt-country band the Old 97's, although he also pursued a critically acclaimed solo career. Formed in 1993, the Old 97's built a devoted following with their brash blend of country and power pop influences. Advanced Ticket Price: $28-32 plus tax; Day of Show Ticket Price: $35 plus taxes/fees. NOVE M BE R 1 3T H

Fall Greeting Card-Making Workshop

PEN N IN GTON PUBLIC LIBR ARY | 3:0 0 P M Presenter is Alicia Vincelette, of Inked Edge Paper Art. Learn the basics of greeting card-making using rubber stamped images, interesting folding and layering techniques to create one-of-a kind cards. This is a handson class during which various tools will be used to create cards that can be used for whatever occasion preferred. There is a $5 registration fee. NOV EM BE R 1 8T H

Live Music & Vino

H OPEW ELL VALLEY VIN EYARD S | 5 :0 0 P M Catmoondaddy will perform rock/pop songs until 8 p.m. Catmoondaddy is the ninth life of a band with more than 40 years of seasoning and an extensive repertoire. They draw on beloved songs without regard to decade or genre. Pizza hours at the winery are until 8:30 p.m. that evening. Call 609.737.4465 for updates. NOV EM BE R 2 3 RD

Family Story Time

PEN N IN GTON PUBLIC LIBR ARY | 1 1 :0 0 A M Take a blanket or chair and join a library representative on the front patio for a half hour of stories, music and more, weather permitting. In case of inclement weather, they will meet inside and masks will be required. No prior registration required. Phone 609.737.0404 for updates. NOVE M BE R 2 4 T H

Hopewell Valley 5K Turkey Trot

MERCER MEADOW S , R OS EDAL E PA R K | 9 :0 0 A M Support Hopewell Valley Wrestling at this Pennington rain-or-shine race. Tech T-Shirts for first 300 registrants; T-shirts for all registrations received by Nov. 10--others while supplies last. Registration fees through Nov. 10 for 18 and younger: $25; open $30. Race day fees $30 and $35. In keeping with spirit of the day, donations to Hopewell Valley Mobile pantry collected. Details: HopewellTurkeyTrot@gmail.com.

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EVE N TS

Food Banks

Help Locally

Looking For A Place To Donate Or To Volunteer For This Thanksgiving Season? ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON Two local food pantries are in need of food or monetary donations, as well as volunteers. One streamlined way to assist is through group- or neighborhood-led food drives, which mount up even if every person only donates a couple of nonperishable items or cans. Another way is to select pantries as “charities of choice” on Amazon Smile, which costs online shoppers nothing while 0.5% of associated purchase proceeds then go directly to the pantries. Organizers of the Delaware Valley Food Pantry indicate it’s the largest and longest-serving food pantry in the Lambertville/New Hope region, with the group feeding families since 1955. The pantry helps more than 1,000 people per month who are in need of food, and they’re staffed entirely by volunteers and supported by community donations. During this August, the food pantry team reopened operations in the group’s CVS Shopping Center location, 1 Cherry St., after operating outdoors since March 2020 due to COVID-19 parameters. “In rain and shine, freezing and sweltering weather, we stayed open and provided food to our community members who needed it,” says C.J. Lonoff, pantry president. To assist DVFP, call 609.638.7888, email info@delawarevalleyfoodpantry.org or visit DelawareValleyFoodPantry.org.

G IV IN G BAC K | LOCA L SERVI CE S

Fisherman’s Mark Children, veterans, the elderly, disabled, unemployed/underemployed and housing-unstable individuals or families throughout Bucks and Hunterdon County can get assistance from this Lambertville-based nonprofit at 262 N. Main St. Food, personal hygiene items, diapers and fresh produce can be donated.

609.397.0194 FishermansMark.org

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